University Course Requirements

A Broad Guide toUniversity Course Requirements The following is intended as a rough guide to help you think about the A Levels you might choose.It is NOT intended as a comprehensive list and if you are seriously considering a specific course at this stage, it is worth looking at university websites to see exactly what they require.The time spent thinking and researching now could make all the difference to the potential to be accepted on a university course in the future – the wrong A Levels, or combination, could preclude you from applying for some courses.All universities will accept candidates holding three A Levels, some with less. None expect more than three and even Cambridge and Oxford prefer relevant work experience (or something else which shows enthusiasm for the subject) to a fourth subject.Most universities now use GCSEs to filter candidates and, although not stated, the more competitive courses and universities will expect many grade 9,8 and 7 to have been attained.

Subject	A Level Requirements
Accountancy	Maths required by several leading departments
Ancient History	No subjects specified. Can be studied without Latin (though not at Cambridge) and can be combined with Archaeology.
Architecture	Most applicants take A Level Art. DT can be useful. Maths is considered essential.
Biochemistry	Three Science or Maths A Levels including Chemistry (AS Maths may be stipulated).
Biological Sciences	Biology and Chemistry A Levels. Some courses accept Biology together with Maths or Physics but the choice is restricted.
Business Studies	Business Studies advantageous but no subjects normally specified. A Level Maths may be required or preferred by some universities.
Chemical Engineering	Maths and Chemistry A Levels
Chemistry	Chemistry A Level. Maths and another Science also essential for many.
Classics	Most universities require Latin or Greek A Level
Computer Science	Computing beneficial but Maths A Level often essential. For Cambridge, Further Maths and a physical science recommended.
Dentistry	As for Medicine (see below). Practical experience is vital.
Drama	No subjects specified. These courses are often extremely competitive and extensive relevant experience is recommended.
Economics	No specific A Level subjects required in most cases but, in practice, Maths strongly recommended for most competitive courses. For Cambridge, Maths and Economics are required.
Education Studies	A Level in subject to be studied with Education needed but no other specific requirements.
Engineering	Maths and Physics A Levels. Further Maths recommended, especially for Oxbridge. DT can be useful.
English	English Literature A Level. History and languages (ancient or modern) are supporting subjects.
Geography	Geography A Level. One Science or Maths can be helpful.
History	A Level History required
History of Art	History of Art beneficial although no specific subjects required. History and a language recommended for Cambridge.
Law	A Level foreign language required for International Law. Otherwise, no subjects required. At least one essay writing subject is advised.
Mathematics	Maths A Level. For Oxbridge, Further Maths is highly desirable and Physics is recommended.
Medicine	Chemistry and Biology advised at A Level, best supported by Maths or Physics but not essential. A contrasting A Level is desirable. Practical experience essential.
Natural Sciences (Biological)	Biology and Chemistry essential. Maths or Physics helpful.
Natural Sciences (Physical)	Chemistry, Maths and Physics advised. Further Maths recommended.
Oriental Studies	A modern language required and evidence of commitment to this course.
Philosophy	Philosophy is beneficial but no subjects specified. A subject which demonstrates logical thought is highly recommended, especially for Oxbridge. Familiarity with philosophical argument is essential for interview.
Physics	Physics and Maths A Level. Further Maths very helpful, especially for Oxbridge.
Politics	Government and Politics beneficial but no subjects specified.
Psychology (Arts)	No subjects specified
Psychology (Science)	Two Science/Maths A Levels. Biology helpful.
Sport Science	PE is advantageous with Biology but no subject usually specified – practical skills need to be strong.
Veterinary Science	Chemistry and Biology plus Physics or Maths. Practical experience essential.